An FBI billboard meant to speed the capture of a wanted man was vandalized Tuesday to curtail the effort.

The billboard was unveiled Friday at Imperial Highway and Leffingwell Boulevard in Whittier and included photos of Emigdio Preciado Jr., a member of the Southside Whittier gang.

The graffiti, which obscured Preciado’s face and name, was discovered by sheriff’s Norwalk Station deputies on patrol check at 9:20 a.m. Tuesday.

“It’s disappointing for the community to have to deal with that element in the community that would deface public property,” FBI representative Laura Eimiller said.

Eimiller said the advertising company has been contacted and the FBI is working to replace or clean the billboard, which Eimiller said will be expensive.

“It will cost anywhere from several hundred dollars to thousands of dollars depending on whether it needs to be fully replaced,” Eimiller said.

Preciado is among the FBI’s 10 most-wanted fugitives for allegedly shooting a sheriff’s deputy in the head seven years ago. The deputy survived, but was severely injured.

Sgt. John Fredendall discovered the graffiti. He said the billboard will be replaced, and that officials are still seeking information on Preciado.

“We’d appreciate it if the public would be aware of that this individual is still wanted,” Fredendall said. “If anybody in the public has information on the person being sought, we’d appreciate a call.”

Preciado is Latino, 5 feet 5 inches tall and 180 pounds, and may have tattoos of “Susana” and “Alexa” on the left side of his chest. A reward of $150,000 is being offered for his capture.

Anyone with information about Preciado’s whereabouts can call (888) 226-8443. Tips can always be given anonymously.